It’s late summer in Texas. This is the time of year when I’m SO over the heat. I shouldn’t complain – it’s not like we’re experiencing 40+ days of 100-degree temps around here like we did last year. We’ve had SOME rain. But still, the heat drags on a bit longer than I’d like.

This means I still try to avoid turning on the oven, so there isn’t much baking going on. However, there are times when a sweet treat is necessary – like when you’re entertaining a crowd of little ones, and they’re ready for a good snack. If that sweet treat can be good for you and satisfy the fiercest of cravings, then I consider that a win.

This decadent dairy-free chocolate “milkshake” is just that. Creamy, cool, and full of chocolatey goodness, no one would guess this baby is packed with healthy fats, fiber, protein, potassium, and tons of vitamins, without any inflammation-causing dairy or sugar. Fool your taste buds and fool the kids.

How did I do this without ice cream or milk? Easy!

Enter Silk. I knew of Silk’s products before I was dairy-free, but as far as I knew, they only made soy milk. However, in the past few years, they have greatly expanded their selection. Now, you can buy almond milk, coconut milk, and even organic soy milk. I’m a big fan of the unsweetened varieties – I’d much rather add my own healthier, natural sweeteners whenever possible. It’s wonderful that Silk provides that selection. I also love that their non-dairy milks still provide a full mouthfeel – they’re not watery like some can be. This is essential when you want a creamy “milkshake”. (Silk-shake? You could totally go so far as to call it that!)

To bump up the creaminess even more, I added frozen banana and avocado. Frozen bananas are a common ingredient in our home – we always end up with overripe bananas, so I peel them and break into chunks and freeze. This way, there are always bananas available for smoothies and treats like this. As for the avocado, don’t freak out. The end result isn’t green (as you can see), and the flavor of avocado isn’t present. It simply provides some excellent healthy fat and an excellent texture. For even more nutrition and a thicker shake, chia seeds are key. They provide omega-3′s, fiber, and protein.

But enough about the nutritional aspects – it’s time for a chocolate indulgence! Gather the kids after an afternoon of swimming or sports, and celebrate “chocolate milkshake time!”

Creamy Chocolate “Milkshake” (gluten-free, vegan, refined sugar-free)

Makes 2 servings

1/2 ripe avocado

1 banana, frozen

3 Medjool dates, pitted

1 T ground chia seeds

2 T cocoa powder

1/4 t cinnamon

1/2 t vanilla extract

1 1/2 c unsweetened Silk non-dairy milk (such as organic soy milk, almond milk, or coconut milk)

2-3 ice cubes

1-2 T cacao nibs (optional – probably preferred by adults more than children)

In a high-powered blender, blend all ingredients until smooth and creamy. Pour into glasses, top with cacao nibs, and serve with a straw or a spoon.

For more fun “Silkology” blended and mixed dairy-free treats, check out Silk’s Facebook page and “Like” them!

Silk inspired me to think outside of the bowl with their new Silkology-inspired drink recipes. Tell me something new you want to try this summer when entertaining to win a Silkology prize package.

This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of Silk. The opinions and text are all mine. Official Sweepstakes Rules.